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G'day fellow workshoppers,
Finally got around to designing, building and installing the new auto door for our girls. I was quiet shocked at the price of purchasing a pre-built opener, but I've put together a price list and can understand why these items are expensive. Anyhoo, I will attempt a how-to on this project.
Here are the parts required for the build that I put together. Motor, photocell, double pole double throw relay, timer, transformer, micro/limit switches and an enclosure to put it all in. (The black transformer may be used as an alternative).
I had to make a shaft for the motor so as to lift and lower the door. I decided to use a bolt with a hole drilled in the end to suit the shaft. A couple of very large washers and nuts and a smaller bolt tapped to lock onto the shaft as a key.
Time to put it all together. Wiring is via the diagram attached below. I also decided to install some LED marker lights I had as surplus to come on just prior to dusk and turn off after a couple of hours (photo upside down for some reason). I did a test run at this stage to ensure it worked.
The following is after installing on the coop. The little pulleys allow the door to open/close without binding.
The rope is just plain 'gunline' and is not prone to rotting. I will probably replace this with something more permanent in the future.
Last but not least is the placement of the micro/limit switches which shuts down the motor when either in the raised or lowered position. In this case I used a long bolt and positioned the switches to allow activation.
Here is the wiring diagram. It may look a bit intimidating but it is foolproof.
If anyone wants a PDF version, just let me know. Also if you have any questions, please don't hesitate.
Nearly forgot the price list.
24v DC motor with 48RPM reduction gearbox - $10.80 (ebay)
Photocell - $3.26 (ebay)
Relay - $4.70 (wholesaler)
Timer - Free but can purchase for under $20.00
Transformer - Free but approx $20-30 on ebay
2 x Limit switches - $12.00 (wholesaler)
Enclosure - $32.00 (wholesaler) but can get much cheaper without clear lid.
Cable, connectors and misc stuff - Approx $5-6
Labour not considered (approx 4 hours to put together, test and install).
Considering a pre-made purchased unit costs upwards of $250.00 - $400.00, I think I made the right decision making it myself.
Cheers'n'beers
Daryl
You ask way back in August 2019 if this can operate from a cell phone. Well I hope you found out how to do it. But if you did not and are still looking or for anyone else, here is a very simple way to do that with the use of either a SONOFF or MHCOZY 4CH Smart switches.
It can be as simple as switch and Linear Actuator.
OR add a light for door closed or open indication.
OR add a SONOFF DW2 Wi-Fi Wireless Door Window Sensor, to let you know if the door is down, if you are not at home to visually check. Combined with a SONOFF B05-BL-A19 Wi-Fi Smart RGB Bulb, you can make it so a lamp inside the house turns red, letting you know the door did not go down.
Thanks for updating with the above operation, @Mouthpear. I trust any of our members looking for cellphone operation will appreciate your input.
A note for our other readers: Although the wiring diagram depicts a low-voltage, if anyone has concerns, I'd encourage you to enlist the services of a qualified electrician.
Mitchell
